Every State’s Guy Fieri Hot Spot Worth Hitting The Highway For
Guy Fieri has traveled coast to coast, shining a spotlight on America’s most mouthwatering diners, drive-ins, and dives.
His show has introduced millions of viewers to hidden gems serving up comfort food that’s worth every mile driven.
Get ready to fuel up your car and your appetite as we take you on a delicious road trip through all fifty states.
1. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q (Alabama)
Alabama knows barbecue, and Big Bob Gibson has been serving championship-level smoked meats since 1925. Their white sauce is legendary – a tangy mayo-based creation that’ll change how you think about barbecue forever.
Guy went wild for their pit-smoked chicken, which gets dunked in that famous white sauce right off the grill. The pork is fall-apart tender, kissed with hickory smoke for hours.
Locals have been making pilgrimages here for generations, and one bite explains why.
2. The Cookie Jar Restaurant (Alaska)
Way up in Alaska, The Cookie Jar serves comfort food that warms you from the inside out after a chilly Alaskan adventure. Their homemade pies are basically edible hugs, with flaky crusts and generous fillings.
Guy couldn’t get enough of their reindeer sausage and eggs – a uniquely Alaskan breakfast experience. The portions are generous enough to fuel a day of wilderness exploration.
Everything’s made from scratch daily, just like grandma used to do it.
3. Matt’s Big Breakfast (Arizona)
Phoenix’s Matt’s Big Breakfast keeps things simple and absolutely perfect. They source local ingredients and turn them into breakfast magic without any fancy tricks or pretentious plating.
Their scrambled eggs are impossibly fluffy, cooked low and slow with real butter. Guy was blown away by their pancakes – crispy edges, fluffy centers, and pure maple syrup.
The bacon is thick-cut and perfectly crispy. There’s usually a wait, but trust me, it’s worth every minute.
4. Root Café (Arkansas)
Little Rock’s Root Café proves that healthy food can be downright delicious and totally satisfying. They’re all about farm-to-table freshness, working directly with local farmers to bring seasonal goodness to your plate.
Guy loved their creative veggie dishes that even meat lovers can’t resist. Their breakfast burrito is stuffed with farm-fresh eggs and local veggies.
Everything tastes alive and vibrant, like vegetables should. The smoothies are pretty epic too.
5. Hodad’s (California)
San Diego’s Hodad’s is a burger paradise wrapped in surf culture and covered wall-to-wall with license plates. The vibe is loud, fun, and completely unpretentious – exactly what a great burger joint should be.
Their burgers are massive, juicy, and loaded with toppings that somehow all work together perfectly. Guy declared them some of California’s best.
The onion rings are beer-battered and dangerously addictive. Cash only, so hit the ATM first.
6. The Bagel Deli & Restaurant (Colorado)
Denver’s Bagel Deli has been hand-rolling and boiling authentic New York-style bagels since way before bagels were trendy. They’re chewy, perfectly dense, and have that classic bagel pull that makes breakfast worth waking up for.
Guy went nuts for their pastrami sandwich – piled high with tender, peppery meat on fresh-baked bread. The cream cheese is schmeared thick and creamy.
Breakfast sandwiches here are legendary among locals who know good bagels.
7. O’Rourke’s Diner (Connecticut)
O’Rourke’s Diner in Middletown is where classic diner fare meets creative genius. The chef takes traditional breakfast and lunch staples, then adds unexpected twists that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Their Irish eggs Benedict features corned beef hash and perfectly poached eggs. Guy loved how they honor diner traditions while pushing boundaries.
The atmosphere is pure vintage Americana, complete with counter seating and friendly banter. It’s Connecticut comfort at its finest.
8. Stoney’s Pub (Delaware)
Stoney’s Pub brings British pub vibes to Delaware with a menu that’s way more exciting than fish and chips. Though honestly, their fish and chips are pretty spectacular too.
Guy flipped for their crab cakes—packed with jumbo lump crab meat and barely any filler. The shepherd’s pie is comfort food perfection, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
They’ve got great craft beer selections and a laid-back atmosphere. Delaware locals consider this their neighborhood hangout spot.
9. Metro Diner (Florida)
Jacksonville’s Metro Diner serves Southern comfort with a side of nostalgia. Their chicken and waffles are the stuff of breakfast legend – crispy fried chicken perched atop fluffy waffles drizzled with sweet maple syrup.
Guy couldn’t stop raving about their fried chicken, which is brined, seasoned, and fried to golden perfection. The meatloaf is homestyle heaven.
Portions are huge, so come hungry or plan to take home leftovers. The retro atmosphere adds extra flavor.
10. The Silver Skillet (Georgia)
Atlanta’s Silver Skillet has been serving authentic Southern breakfast since 1956, and they haven’t changed a thing that matters. Their biscuits are fluffy clouds of buttery goodness, baked fresh throughout the morning.
Guy went crazy for their country ham with red-eye gravy—salty, savory, and quintessentially Southern. The grits are creamy and perfectly seasoned.
Everything tastes like Sunday morning at grandma’s house. Cash only, and totally worth the ATM stop.
11. Hank’s Haute Dogs (Hawaii)
Honolulu’s Hank’s Haute Dogs elevates the humble hot dog into culinary art. These aren’t your ballpark franks – they’re gourmet creations with globally-inspired toppings that somehow all make perfect sense together.
Guy loved their Hawaiian-style dogs topped with pineapple and teriyaki sauce. They use high-quality sausages and house-made condiments.
The tropical fruit combinations shouldn’t work but absolutely do. It’s island creativity meets American classic in the best possible way.
12. Big Jud’s (Idaho)
Boise’s Big Jud’s lives up to its name with burgers so massive they require serious jaw-stretching. Their one-pound burger is just the starting point – they’ve got challenges that go way bigger.
Guy tackled their signature burger loaded with bacon, cheese, and all the fixings. The hand-cut fries are perfectly crispy on the outside.
Milkshakes are thick enough to require a spoon. Idaho knows how to do big portions and bold flavors right.
13. Paradise Pup (Illinois)
This tiny Des Plaines spot proves that great things come in small packages. Paradise Pup serves Chicago-style hot dogs and burgers that have locals lining up regardless of weather.
Their char-grilled burgers have crispy edges and juicy centers that Guy called near-perfect. The Depression Dog comes loaded with classic Chicago toppings.
Everything’s made fresh to order, so expect a short wait. The outdoor picnic tables add to the casual summer vibe year-round.
14. Zydeco’s (Indiana)
Mooresville’s Zydeco’s brings authentic Louisiana flavors to the Indiana heartland. Their Cajun and Creole dishes pack serious spice and soul, transporting you straight to the French Quarter.
Guy devoured their jambalaya, loaded with andouille sausage, chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice. The gumbo is dark, rich, and loaded with seafood.
Po’boys are stuffed generously and dressed properly. It’s a taste of New Orleans without the plane ticket required.
15. Smokey D’s BBQ (Iowa)
Des Moines knows good barbecue, and Smokey D’s delivers it with Midwestern hospitality. Their meats are smoked low and slow until they’re fall-apart tender and kissed with perfect smoke rings.
Guy couldn’t get enough of their pulled pork, which is juicy, flavorful, and needs minimal sauce. The burnt ends are caramelized perfection.
Homemade sides like mac and cheese complement the smoky meats beautifully. It’s Iowa comfort food at its absolute finest.
16. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (Kansas)
Originally located in a gas station, Joe’s Kansas City has become a barbecue pilgrimage site. Kansas City barbecue is legendary, and Joe’s represents the best of this smoky tradition.
Their Z-Man sandwich – brisket, provolone, onion rings, and barbecue sauce – blew Guy’s mind completely. The burnt ends are crusty, fatty, and absolutely addictive.
Ribs fall off the bone with gentle persuasion. Lines form early, but moving fast keeps things flowing smoothly.
17. The GraleHaus (Kentucky)
Louisville’s GraleHaus combines craft beer culture with elevated pub fare in a historic building. The atmosphere feels both sophisticated and welcoming, perfect for beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Guy loved their creative takes on comfort food, paired expertly with local craft beers. The duck confit poutine is indulgent and amazing.
Their burger uses local beef and comes topped with creative combinations. It’s proof that pub food can be both comforting and inventive.
18. Mahony’s Po-Boy Shop (Louisiana)
New Orleans without po’boys is like jazz without trumpets – unthinkable. Mahony’s does these iconic sandwiches right, stuffing French bread with generous portions of fried seafood or roasted meats.
Guy demolished their fried shrimp po’boy, dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo. The bread is crusty outside, pillowy inside.
Their roast beef po’boy comes swimming in rich gravy. It’s messy eating, but that’s part of the authentic experience.
19. Becky’s Diner (Maine)
Portland’s Becky’s Diner sits right on the working waterfront, serving fishermen and tourists alike since 1991. The atmosphere is authentically Maine – no-frills, friendly, and focused on good food.
Their lobster omelet is pure Maine luxury, stuffed with sweet lobster meat and cheese. Guy loved how they celebrate local seafood.
Blueberry pancakes feature Maine’s famous wild berries. Breakfast is served all day, because sometimes you need pancakes at dinner.
20. Chaps Pit Beef (Maryland)
Baltimore pit beef is a regional treasure, and Chaps does it better than anyone. They char-grill beef over an open flame, slice it thin, and pile it high on Kaiser rolls.
Guy went wild for their pit beef sandwich, topped with horseradish and onions. The meat is crusty outside, juicy inside, and full of smoky flavor.
Their turkey and ham are equally impressive. It’s fast-casual dining with serious flavor that locals crave constantly.
21. Mr. Bartley’s Burger Cottage (Massachusetts)
Right in Harvard Square, Mr. Bartley’s has been serving creative burgers with punny political names since 1960. The walls are covered with memorabilia, and the atmosphere buzzes with student energy.
Guy loved their thick, juicy burgers that come with mountains of crispy fries. Each burger has unique toppings and clever names.
The onion rings are hand-battered and enormous. It’s Cambridge institution that proves college food doesn’t have to be ramen.
22. Traffic Jam & Snug (Michigan)
Detroit’s Traffic Jam & Snug does everything in-house – they bake their bread, brew their beer, and even make their own cheese. This commitment to from-scratch cooking shows in every delicious bite.
Guy was impressed by their creativity and dedication to quality ingredients. The beer cheese soup is rich and flavorful.
Their sandwiches feature house-baked bread that’s impossibly fresh. It’s Detroit innovation applied to comfort food with outstanding results.
23. Pizzeria Lola (Minnesota)
Minneapolis’s Pizzeria Lola takes pizza seriously but not pretentiously. Their wood-fired pies feature creative topping combinations that sound wild but taste absolutely incredible together.
Guy flipped for their Korean BBQ pizza – kimchi, pork belly, and scallions on perfectly charred crust. The dough is chewy with crispy edges.
Traditional pizzas are equally impressive, using quality ingredients and proper technique. Minnesota winters taste better with wood-fired pizza.
24. The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint (Mississippi)
Ocean Springs’s The Shed combines award-winning barbecue with live blues music in a backyard atmosphere. The vibe is laid-back Mississippi hospitality with serious smoke and flavor.
Their ribs won the Memphis in May championship, and Guy understood why immediately. The pulled pork is tender and smoky.
Blues music fills the air on weekends, making meals feel like celebrations. It’s Southern culture and cuisine in perfect harmony.
25. Sweetie Pie’s (Missouri)
St. Louis’s Sweetie Pie’s serves soul food that’ll make you want to hug the chef. Their fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and seasoned with love that you can actually taste.
Guy couldn’t get enough of their mac and cheese – creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection. The sweet potato pie is dessert heaven.
Portions are generous, and flavors are bold. It’s comfort food that comforts your soul, not just your stomach.
26. Storm Castle Café (Montana)
Bozeman’s Storm Castle Café serves hearty mountain fare perfect for fueling outdoor adventures. Their portions are Montana-sized, designed for people who actually use those calories hiking and skiing.
Guy loved their creative breakfast burritos stuffed with eggs, potatoes, and local ingredients. The pancakes are fluffy and enormous.
Everything feels fresh and wholesome, like mountain air in food form. Coffee is strong enough to wake hibernating bears.
27. Amato’s Café & Catering (Nebraska)
Omaha’s Amato’s brings Italian home cooking to Nebraska with recipes passed down through generations. Their red sauce simmers for hours, developing deep, complex flavors that taste like Sunday dinner.
Guy devoured their meatballs, which are tender, flavorful, and swimming in that incredible sauce. Pasta is cooked perfectly al dente.
The portions are generous, and the atmosphere feels like family. It’s Nebraska hospitality with Italian soul and flavor.
28. NAC Burger (Nevada)
Las Vegas’s NAC Burger proves that Sin City does more than buffets and steakhouses. Their burgers are crafted with quality beef and creative toppings that elevate the classic American burger.
Guy loved their unique combinations, like burgers topped with mac and cheese or peanut butter. Sweet potato fries are perfectly crispy.
The craft beer selection complements the burgers beautifully. It’s Vegas dining without the casino prices or pretension.
29. Red Arrow Diner (New Hampshire)
Manchester’s Red Arrow Diner has been serving classic diner fare 24/7 since 1922. Politicians, celebrities, and regular folks all sit at the same counter, united by great food.
Guy loved their corned beef hash, made from scratch with tender beef and crispy potatoes. The biscuits and gravy are pure comfort.
Everything’s available anytime, because cravings don’t follow schedules. It’s New Hampshire tradition served with a smile around the clock.
30. White Manna (New Jersey)
Hackensack’s White Manna has been slinging sliders since 1946 in a tiny building with huge flavor. These aren’t regular burgers – they’re thin, crispy-edged patties served on soft buns.
Guy understood immediately why people order them by the half-dozen. The burgers are cooked on a flat-top griddle until edges get deliciously crispy.
Onions are grilled right into the patties. It’s simple, classic, and absolutely perfect—Jersey diners at their finest.
31. Tune-Up Café (New Mexico)
Albuquerque’s Tune-Up Café serves New Mexican and Central American flavors in a funky, welcoming space. Their green chile is roasted locally and appears in almost everything, adding that signature New Mexico heat.
Guy went crazy for their breakfast burritos smothered in green chile sauce. The pupusas are authentic and delicious.
Everything bursts with fresh flavors and proper spice. It’s cultural fusion done right, celebrating New Mexico’s diverse food heritage.
32. Di Fara Pizza (New York)
Brooklyn’s Di Fara Pizza is where pizza becomes art, crafted by a master who’s been perfecting pies since 1965. Dom DeMarco hand-makes every pizza himself with imported ingredients.
Guy watched in awe as Dom carefully assembled each pie with fresh mozzarella and basil. The wait is long, but watching the master work is entertainment.
Each slice is worth the pilgrimage. It’s New York pizza royalty, period.
33. Caffe Driade (North Carolina)
Chapel Hill’s Caffe Driade combines European café culture with Southern hospitality in a gorgeous garden setting. The outdoor space feels like a secret garden where coffee tastes even better.
Guy loved their creative sandwiches and fresh salads made with local ingredients. The coffee is expertly roasted and brewed.
Pastries are baked fresh daily and pair perfectly with espresso drinks. It’s a college town treasure that transcends student hangout status.
34. Pounds (North Dakota)
Fargo’s Pounds serves burgers that live up to their name – thick, juicy patties that weigh in heavy and taste incredible. These aren’t delicate sliders; they’re serious burgers for serious appetites.
Guy loved their classic approach to burgers, letting quality beef shine without unnecessary complications. Hand-cut fries are perfectly seasoned.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, pure North Dakota friendly. It’s straightforward food done exceptionally well without pretense.
35. Melt Bar and Grilled (Ohio)
Cleveland’s Melt Bar and Grilled takes grilled cheese to absolutely insane levels. Their sandwiches are towering creations stuffed with multiple cheeses, meats, and creative additions that somehow work together.
Guy tackled their massive sandwiches that require serious jaw-stretching and napkin supplies. The Parmageddon features pierogies, pasta sauce, and mozzarella.
Every sandwich is Instagram-worthy and stomach-filling. It’s comfort food taken to extreme, delicious heights.
36. Leo’s BBQ (Oklahoma)
Oklahoma City’s Leo’s BBQ has been smoking meats with hickory wood since 1974, creating barbecue that’s become an Oklahoma institution. Their pit masters know exactly when meat reaches smoky perfection.
Guy devoured their ribs, which have a beautiful smoke ring and fall-off-the-bone tenderness. The hot links are spicy and snappy.
Sides are homestyle and generous, complementing the smoky meats perfectly. It’s Oklahoma barbecue tradition served with pride.
37. Screen Door (Oregon)
Portland’s Screen Door brings Southern soul food to the Pacific Northwest with impressive authenticity. Their fried chicken is brined, perfectly seasoned, and fried to crispy, juicy perfection.
Guy loved how they honor Southern traditions while using Northwest ingredients. The chicken and waffles are breakfast legend material.
Biscuits are fluffy and buttery, smothered in rich sausage gravy. Expect waits, but the porch seating makes waiting almost pleasant.
38. Memphis Taproom (Pennsylvania)
Philadelphia’s Memphis Taproom combines serious craft beer selection with elevated pub food that goes way beyond typical bar fare. The neighborhood vibe is welcoming, and the food matches the beer quality.
Guy loved their creative takes on comfort food, like duck fat fries and gourmet sandwiches. Everything pairs thoughtfully with their rotating beer selection.
The burger uses local beef and comes topped with inventive combinations. It’s Philly’s craft beer scene with food that keeps pace.
39. Crazy Burger Café & Juice Bar (Rhode Island)
Narragansett’s Crazy Burger lives up to its name with wild burger combinations and fresh juice options. They offer everything from beef to veggie burgers, all with creative toppings.
Guy loved their adventurous approach to burgers, featuring global flavors and unexpected ingredients. The Thai burger combines peanut sauce with spicy flavors.
Fresh juices complement the hearty burgers perfectly. It’s Rhode Island quirky meets seriously delicious food in beachy atmosphere.
40. Dixie Supply Bakery & Café (South Carolina)
Charleston’s Dixie Supply serves Southern breakfast and lunch in a casual, welcoming space. Their biscuits are legendary – fluffy, buttery, and baked fresh throughout the morning service.
Guy couldn’t get enough of their fried chicken biscuit, featuring crispy chicken on house-made biscuits. The shrimp and grits are creamy perfection.
Everything tastes authentically Southern without tourist-trap prices. It’s Charleston comfort food that locals actually eat regularly.
41. Phillips Avenue Diner (South Dakota)
Sioux Falls’s Phillips Avenue Diner serves classic American diner fare with Midwestern hospitality and generous portions. The retro atmosphere adds nostalgia to every delicious bite.
Guy loved their creative takes on breakfast classics, like stuffed French toast and hearty omelets. The pancakes are fluffy and enormous.
Everything’s made from scratch daily, ensuring freshness and quality. It’s South Dakota comfort served in a friendly, welcoming environment.
42. Arnold’s Country Kitchen (Tennessee)
Nashville’s Arnold’s Country Kitchen serves meat-and-three Southern style, where you pick one meat and three sides from daily offerings. It’s cafeteria-style service with home-cooking quality.
Guy loved their fried chicken, which locals consider Nashville’s best. The mac and cheese is creamy comfort.
Vegetables are cooked Southern-style with proper seasoning. Lines form early for lunch, but the line moves quickly and efficiently.
43. The Original Market Diner (Texas)
Houston’s Original Market Diner serves Texas-sized portions of comfort food classics. Their chicken fried steak is massive, crispy, and smothered in creamy white gravy.
Guy loved how they embrace Texas’s bigger-is-better philosophy without sacrificing quality. Breakfast is served all day with generous portions.
The biscuits are fluffy and the gravy is peppery perfection. It’s Houston hospitality served with serious flavor and no pretension.
44. Moochies Meatballs & More (Utah)
Salt Lake City’s Moochies specializes in massive meatball subs that require serious appetite and jaw-stretching abilities. Their meatballs are tender, flavorful, and loaded into fresh-baked bread.
Guy tackled their enormous sandwiches stuffed with meatballs, sauce, and cheese. The Godfather sandwich is particularly legendary among locals.
Portions are enormous, making sharing a smart strategy. It’s Utah comfort food with Italian-American soul and serious substance.
45. The Maple Leaf Diner (Vermont)
Vermont’s Maple Leaf Diner celebrates the state’s most famous product – pure maple syrup – in breakfast dishes that taste like Vermont mornings. Their pancakes are fluffy vehicles for that liquid gold.
Guy loved how they incorporate local maple syrup into multiple dishes, not just breakfast sweets. The French toast is thick-cut and perfectly cooked.
Everything tastes fresh and locally-sourced. It’s Vermont hospitality served with genuine maple sweetness in every bite.
46. The Village Café (Virginia)
Virginia’s Village Café serves Southern comfort food in a cozy atmosphere that feels like visiting family. Their homemade pies rotate daily, featuring seasonal fruits and classic favorites.
Guy loved their fried chicken and classic Southern sides made from scratch. The mashed potatoes are real, whipped with butter and cream.
Biscuits are baked fresh and served warm throughout service. It’s Virginia hospitality with cooking that honors Southern traditions.
47. Slim’s Last Chance Chili Shack (Washington)
Seattle’s Slim’s Last Chance serves killer chili in a converted gas station with character for days. The atmosphere is quirky, the staff is friendly, and the chili is seriously good.
Guy loved their spicy chili variations, each with unique flavor profiles and heat levels. The Coney dogs are messy, delicious perfection.
Tater tots are crispy and addictive as sides. It’s Seattle weird meets comfort food in the best possible combination.
48. Bluegrass Kitchen (West Virginia)
Charleston’s Bluegrass Kitchen focuses on farm-to-table Southern cuisine using West Virginia’s best local ingredients. Their commitment to sourcing locally shows in every fresh, flavorful bite.
Guy loved how they elevate Appalachian food traditions with modern techniques and quality ingredients. The fried green tomatoes are perfectly crispy.
Seasonal menus change based on what’s available locally. It’s West Virginia pride served on plates with serious culinary skill.
49. Delta Diner (Wisconsin)
Wisconsin’s Delta Diner sits in a converted railroad car in the middle of nowhere, serving comfort food worth the drive. Their pies are legendary, baked fresh daily with flaky crusts.
Guy loved their creative takes on Midwestern classics, like Swedish meatballs and wild rice cakes. Everything tastes homemade because it is.
The rural location adds to the charm and authenticity. It’s Wisconsin hospitality in the middle of beautiful nowhere.
50. Pinky G’s Pizzeria (Wyoming)
Jackson Hole’s Pinky G’s serves wood-fired pizza in a mountain town atmosphere. Their pizzas feature creative toppings and perfectly charred crusts that come from high-heat wood ovens.
Guy loved their unique pizza combinations that work surprisingly well together. The dough is chewy with crispy, blistered edges.
Local ingredients appear throughout the menu whenever possible. It’s Wyoming mountain hospitality with Italian pizza tradition in delicious harmony.
